Satellite Communications

A faster, smarter ground station for crowded skies

Digital risks: New report maps critical vulnerabilities in the world’s interconnected systems

The report outlines risk scenarios on Earth, at sea, and in space, analyzing the fragility of interconnected digital systems. Experts call for coordinated action between countries to improve digital resilience and protect essential services.

Foldable origami-inspired antennas for CubeSat satellites

Researchers from Institute of Science Tokyo developed a 5.8 GHz foldable antenna designed to provide high antenna gain while remaining compact enough for small satellites. The system aims to improve communication capabilities of small satellites used in applications such as space-based internet services and disaster monitoring.

Thousands of pico-satellites may transform how phones connect to space

Researchers propose using swarms of pico-satellites to form a single large antenna for reliable, high-quality data transmission. This innovative solution could lead to cheaper and more reliable network coverage worldwide, especially in remote areas.

Porto Summit drives critical cooperation on submarine cable resilience

The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) has reaffirmed the need for critical cooperation on submarine cable resilience, with a focus on shortening repair times and supporting underserved regions. The Porto Summit Declaration and recommendations aim to bolster international cooperation across governments and industries.

The sky is full of secrets: Glaring vulnerabilities discovered in satellite communications

Researchers found that nearly half of geostationary satellite communications are not encrypted, putting sensitive data such as cellular texts, voice calls, and military information at risk. The study led to immediate action from companies like T-Mobile, Walmart, and KPU Telecom, which enabled encryption in response to the findings.

World's first successful 2 Tbit/s free-space optical communication using small optical terminals mountable on satellites and HAPS

NICT successfully demonstrated 2 Tbit/s free-space optical communication between two types of small portable optical terminals separated by 7.4 km in an urban environment with atmospheric turbulence, marking a major step forward in the practical application of Non-Terrestrial Networks for Beyond 5G/6G.

NRL’s satellite operations service is ready for the Space Force enterprise

The NRL TREx service provides secure access to government and commercial antenna networks, enabling satellites to operate more effectively by downlinking more data. This has been seen in NRL's satellite missions and now missions across the USSF can onboard to the service.

First Nations Australians twice as likely to be digitally excluded: report

The Mapping the Digital Gap report found that three in four First Nations people living in remote communities are digitally excluded, facing barriers to accessing and using online services. Despite an 8.7 point improvement in digital ability for First Nations people in very remote communities, the gap remains significant.

China to host ITU World Radiocommunication Conference 2027 in Shanghai

The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) has announced that the next World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC-27) will take place in Shanghai, China, from October 11 to November 12, 2027. This conference will review and revise the Radio Regulations, governing the use of radio frequency spectrum and satellite orbits.

UAlbany researcher developing radio frequency interference solutions for U.S. weather satellites

Mustafa Aksoy is leading a research team to develop machine-learning algorithms to detect and remove radio frequency interference from NOAA satellite measurements. The goal is to improve the accuracy of weather forecasts and climate monitoring by mitigating the impact of RFI.

How superstorm Gannon squeezed Earth’s plasmasphere to one-fifth its size

A new study reveals how the superstorm compressed Earth's plasmasphere, a protective layer of charged particles that encircles our planet. The plasmasphere normally extends far from Earth, but during the storm, its outer boundary moved from approximately 44,000 km above Earth's surface to just 9,600 km.

A fast and high-precision satellite-ground synchronization technology in satellite beam hopping communication

A new synchronization method for satellite-ground hopping beam communication is proposed, enabling efficient use of frequency resources and power. The method uses a signaling-assisted fast synchronization technique to match business signals between satellite and ground signal stations.

Student-built satellite will blast into space, collects data for NASA’s IMAP mission

A multidisciplinary team of undergraduate students designed and built a mini satellite to study the solar wind and improve space weather forecasting. The 3UCubed satellite launched into space, providing valuable hands-on experience and opening doors to future opportunities in space-related careers.

Scientists reveal it is possible to beam up quantum signals

Researchers have successfully demonstrated the feasibility of sending entangled photon pairs from ground stations to a satellite, overcoming previous barriers to quantum satellite communications. This breakthrough could pave the way for future quantum computer networks using satellite relays.

Digital divide narrows but gaps remain for Australians as GenAI use surges

GenAI use is narrowing the digital divide in Australia, but significant gaps persist among remote and socioeconomically disadvantaged groups. The study found that Australians aged 18-34, Indigenous peoples, and those with lower digital skills are more likely to use GenAI.

Successful ground-to-satellite laser communications applying next-generation error correction codes, mitigating atmospheric turbulence

Researchers have successfully demonstrated next-generation error correction codes to mitigate the impact of atmospheric turbulence on ground-to-satellite laser communications. The new codes significantly improved communication quality compared to conventional schemes, enabling practical implementation of ground-to-satellite laser links.

Mizzou researchers help farmers prevent and manage livestock losses

University of Missouri researchers are helping farmers prevent disease outbreaks by teaching biosecurity practices, such as hand sanitizing and wearing farm-dedicated shoes. They also provide guidance on safe composting methods to dispose of dead livestock, reducing the risk of disease spread.

PolyU researchers use novel satellite laser ranging technique to reveal accelerated global average sea-level rise with 90 mm surge over past 30 years

Researchers at PolyU have developed a novel technique to measure global ocean mass change, revealing a 90 mm surge in sea-level rise over the past 30 years. The study attributes this acceleration to increased ocean mass and land ice melt, particularly in Greenland.

SwRI develops orbital debris detection system for spacecraft

Researchers have developed a micrometeoroid and orbital debris (MMOD) detection and characterization system for satellites and spacecraft. The system can detect impact details, including particle size and volume, and alert spacecraft of potential hits.

Interference to astronomy the unintended consequence of faster internet

Curtin University researchers have detected significant Starlink satellite interference with radio astronomy observations, affecting up to 30% of images. The study highlights the need for regulatory improvements to minimize the impact of satellite technology on research.

TRACERS mission prepares for launch

The TRACERS mission will explore dynamic interactions between the Sun's and Earth's magnetic fields. By observing particles and fields in the northern magnetic cusp region, researchers can study how magnetic reconnection affects the space environment.

Analog repeaters could be the key to practical mmWave deployment

Researchers from Science Tokyo developed analog relay stations to extend mmWave coverage, achieving over 1 Gbps throughput and enhancing stability in previously unreachable zones. The innovative solution utilizes distributed relay diversity to maintain signal strength and throughput even with blockage.

500-GHz wireless communication achieved over 1.2 km via quantum-limited superconducting receiver

Researchers demonstrated a record-breaking long-distance THz wireless transmission of high-definition video over 1.2 km using an astronomical telescope with a quantum-limited superconductor-insulator-superconductor mixer at 500 GHz.

Bushfire evacuation simulator wins prestigious US prize

The WUI-NITY simulator, developed by a global collaboration of researchers, visualises bushfire spread and people movement to calculate evacuation times. It has been validated in large-scale community evacuation drills and is freely available online for use by authorities and researchers.

Unlocking faster multiplexing for 6G low-earth orbit satellites

A new time-division MIMO technology enables phased-array receivers to operate at high speeds while reducing power and circuit area, addressing limitations in traditional systems. The innovation achieves a record-setting 38.4 Gbps data rate across eight streams, paving the way for practical large-scale MIMO systems.

SETI Institute and SpaceX collaborate to minimize satellite interference on radio astronomy

The SETI Institute and SpaceX have launched a collaboration to reduce satellite interference on radio astronomy observations at the Allen Telescope Array. This effort aims to preserve the integrity of radio astronomy while accommodating expanding global connectivity. By implementing new coordination techniques, the initiative successfu...

Thousands of sensors reveal 3D structure of earthquake-triggered sound waves

Researchers mapped electron density in the ionosphere and observed unique 3D wave patterns after the 2024 Noto Peninsula Earthquake, showing earthquakes generate waves from multiple points along the entire fault line. The study provides new insights into how earthquakes affect the upper atmosphere.

Low-cost antennas power high-precision space-based positioning

Researchers have developed a joint pseudo-range and Doppler positioning technique that achieves remarkable accuracy, surpassing traditional navigation approaches by 35%. The method uses low-cost wide-beam antennas and a specially designed time-frequency inversion algorithm to reconstruct key signal parameters.

Making real-time data processing possible anywhere on Earth

Researchers have developed two graph-based algorithms to improve real-time computing services in space, capturing the dynamic nature of satellite networks. The algorithms prioritize communication and computing resources, enabling efficient scheduling and resource allocation.

Transforming small satellites for a bigger impact using an advanced wireless chip

Researchers developed a novel CMOS chip-based phased-array receiver that maximizes satellite performance by supporting dual-polarized beams, enabling greater communication flexibility. The innovation doubles the number of controllable beams and improves system capacity, making it crucial for real-world deployments.

Enhanced activity in the upper atmosphere of Sporadic E layers during the 2024 Mother’s Day super geomagnetic storm

A new study reveals that sporadic E layers were significantly enhanced during the recovery phase of the 2024 Mother's Day super geomagnetic storm. The phenomenon, which appears as thin and dense patches of ionized metals, was detected mainly over Southeast Asia, Australia, the South Pacific, and the East Pacific.

Total and minimum energy efficiency tradeoff in robust multigroup multicast satellite communications

Researchers investigate the total and minimum energy efficiency tradeoff in robust multigroup multicast satellite communication systems, introducing a new metric to balance system performance and fairness. The study presents an optimization framework for robust beamforming design under imperfect channel phase uncertainty.

FAU CA-AI awarded $2.1million to establish new U.S. Air Force Center of Excellence

The FAU Center of Excellence will focus on developing advanced algorithms, secure hardware solutions, and workforce development to address the strategic gap in electromagnetic spectrum management. This initiative aims to produce innovative technologies to protect and control critical communication channels in contested environments.

New satellite to weigh the world's forests

A new satellite developed by Chalmers University of Technology will help monitor and measure the world's forest biomass. The system enables precise measurements of forest carbon stocks, aiding efforts to combat climate change.

South Africa and China establish record-breaking 12,900 km ultra-secure quantum satellite link

Scientists from South Africa and China successfully established the world's longest intercontinental ultra-secure quantum satellite link spanning 12,900 km. This achievement demonstrates South Africa's potential to develop a thriving quantum ecosystem.

Incheon National University develops advanced communication technology for faster, reliable 5G and 6G networks

Researchers at Incheon National University have developed a new AI-powered solution to improve high-speed users' connectivity in 5G and 6G networks. The method significantly reduces errors and improves data reliability by prioritizing key parameters such as angles and delays.

Two new infrastructures for 6G research installed at the University of Malaga

The Keysight-UMA Lab focuses on testing and measurement equipment for 6G networks, while the Victoria Network promotes technology through end-to-end solutions. The facilities aim to collaborate with industry and academic institutions, advancing 6G research in Spain and positioning the University of Malaga as an international benchmark.

A Sustainable Development Goal for space?

Experts propose an 18th SDG to protect Earth's orbit from accumulating debris, citing the need for global consensus and mechanisms for enforcement. The proposal builds on earlier calls for a legally-binding treaty to safeguard the planet's orbital environment.

Physicists propose new approach that could unlock barriers to global scale quantum network

Researchers at Heriot-Watt University have proposed a new method to filter out daylight noise from quantum signals, enabling all-day satellite transmission. The approach uses time and phase encoding to overcome the issue, allowing SatQKD to operate during dawn and dusk hours.

When trees 'talk:' Researchers probe ancient wood for clues about massive solar storms

Researchers at University of Arizona discovered a spike in carbon-14 dating to 664 B.C., pinpointing the last known extreme solar storm event. The study provides crucial data for scientists studying sun's activity and offers insights into massive storms' effects on Earth's atmosphere.

WVU researcher says ancient tree rings may help Earth prepare for dangerous space weather

A WVU researcher says ancient tree rings can record rare and extreme space weather events, including geomagnetic storms. The study aims to better understand how to prepare for such events and mitigate their impact on communication satellites and astronauts.

GPS jamming? No problem, LEO satellites hold the key to resilient, interference-free navigation

A new study from the University of Vaasa explores advanced positioning technologies, including a patented LEO satellite-based method that outperforms traditional GNSS systems in addressing location vulnerability issues. The research demonstrates significant advancements in both indoor and outdoor positioning accuracy.

Simple shift could make low Earth orbit satellites high capacity

Researchers developed a system to effectively split transmissions from a single antenna array into multiple beams without additional hardware, allowing satellites to overcome the one-to-one user ratio. This enables significant reductions in cost and power consumption, potentially leading to fewer satellites, smaller satellites, or both.

Satellites to monitor marine debris from space

Researchers have demonstrated that satellites can estimate the amount of litter in the sea, highlighting the importance of factors such as population density and geography. The study suggests installing specific plastic detection sensors on satellites to improve monitoring capabilities.

Satellites for quantum communications

Researchers are developing a satellite-based quantum light source for secure communication, leveraging the laws of physics to encode and transmit data. The technology has the potential to extend quantum cryptography over long distances, enabling secure communications between cities or continents.

UC3M and IMDEA Networks present the SLICES research infrastructure

The SLICES research infrastructure, launched by UC3M and IMDEA Networks, provides high-quality experimentation services with emerging technologies like 5G/6G, IoT, NFV, or Cloud Computing. This Spanish node aims to support the scientific community in experimenting with cutting-edge resources.

New, portable antenna could help restore communication after disasters

Researchers have created a lightweight, portable antenna that can switch between two operating states to communicate with satellites or devices on the ground. The antenna's unique design allows it to be compact and foldable, making it ideal for disaster-struck areas or underdeveloped regions.

Are diamonds GaN’s best friend? Revolutionizing transistor technology

Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University fabricated GaN transistors using diamond substrates, achieving more than twice the heat dissipation of SiC-based transistors. This novel technology has the potential to revolutionize power and radio frequency electronics with improved thermal management capabilities.

Rail industry urged to consider safety risks of space weather

Researchers found that space weather events can trigger 'wrong side' failures in rail signalling systems, which are more hazardous than 'right side' failures. This study highlights the need for the industry to consider the risks of space weather and explore mitigation strategies.

Air Force awards UTEP Grant to safeguard assets in space

The University of Texas at El Paso is leading a research effort to detect and study Unresolved Resident Space Objects (URSOs) using spectroscopy. The team aims to extract properties such as material composition and structural health to monitor the health of government-owned and commercial space assets.

One of the largest magnetic storms in history quantified: Aurorae covered much of the night sky from the Tropics to the Polar Regions

A recent solar coronal mass ejection caused aurorae at low latitudes, while a historically significant event in 1872 was found to be one of the most extreme geomagnetic storms in history. The storm's impact on modern society could be severe, with potential disruptions to power grids, communication systems, and satellite communications.

WVU researchers aim to cut through radio interference that obscures signal detection

A West Virginia University research team aims to remove human-made radio interference from cell phones, televisions and radar systems to improve astronomical signal detection. The project will develop new algorithms and hardware with potential applications beyond astronomy.

A nanosatellite and a hot air balloon for emergency broadband anywhere

A research team proposes using nanosatellites to provide stable and comprehensive coverage in emergency situations. The system uses a CubeSat launched over the disaster area on a hot air balloon, enabling wireless information sharing.

Miniaturized FSO breakthrough unlocks high-speed wireless communication anywhere

Researchers at Nanjing University have developed a miniaturized FSO system achieving an astonishing 9.16 Gbps bandwidth over 1 km link using readily available commercial fiber transceiver modules. The system enables automatic tracking and precision acquisition, eliminating the need for optical amplification.

Massive low earth orbit communications satellites could disrupt astronomy

A recent study published in Nature found that massive low-earth orbit communications satellites like BlueWalker 3 can outshine bright stars, disrupting astronomical observations. The satellite's large antenna system causes an abrupt increase in brightness, affecting not only visual observations but also radio astronomy.

Northumbria University preparing for satellite launch after £5m boost for satellite communications research

Northumbria University is set to launch the UK's first university-led multi-satellite space mission with a new laser-based satellite communications system. The £5 million award will allow researchers to design, test and build the first CubeSat with laser optical communications technology.

Satellite security lags decades behind the state of the art

Researchers found that many satellites lack basic security concepts, such as separation of code and data, and rely on obscurity to ensure security. The team conducted a thorough analysis of three low-earth orbit satellites and identified vulnerabilities that could be exploited by hackers.

Eruption of Tonga underwater volcano found to disrupt satellite signals halfway around the world

An international team found that volcanic eruptions can produce equatorial plasma bubbles in the ionosphere, disrupting satellite-based communications. The Tonga eruption triggered an irregular structure of electron density across the equator, delaying radio waves and degrading GPS performance.

Socio-economic development on the West African coast is a key factor for increasing flood risks

A recent study finds that socio-economic development is a key driver of increasing flood risks in West African coastal regions, surpassing the impact of rising sea levels. The research highlights the need for regional coordination to address this issue through conservation and reforms to socio-economic development.